New Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 LWB Facelift Review

Just like the E-Class, the Mercedes-Benz GLE with the LWB (long wheelbase) has been a hit in India thanks to the space at the back plus the focus on comfort, which this segment demands. Now Mercedes-Benz has updated the GLE, and we drove the car to find out how better it is. This is a facelifted GLE, and that is evident at the first look, with the new AMG line trim bringing in a sportier look. The GLE LWB is big and looks huge with loads of presence, but the new look adds some sportiness. The front gets the bulk of the changes with a new grille, and that also gets stars embedded inside along with a single large chrome line with the huge three-pointed star as well. There are new 20-inch wheels too. At the rear, you get new LED tail lights, but the overall stance remains. In short, it looks younger but has lost none of its presence.

Inside, it gets a new steering wheel that looks similar to the S-Class, while the twin 12.3-inch screens are there too. The touchscreen is lovely to use and slick with updated functions added in, while it also gets the ‘transparent bonnet’ feature also seen on the EQE and the GLC, which helps to get a view of the underside. The layout, including the trackpad on the lower part of the centre console to the chrome switches, remains while the metal/wood/chrome look and feel expensive, as you would expect. The new look S-Class steering wheel looks more upmarket, but the touch-sensitive buttons are tricky to use although you get used to it.

Other than the latest MBUX infotainment system, you get features like a superb 13-speaker Burmester audio system, four-zone climate control, heated/cooled massage electric front seats, a 360-degree camera, and more. The excellent all-around camera helps in parking this huge SUV. Most owners would sit at the back, and here, comfort and space are huge while being clearly better than rivals thanks to the LWD wheelbase. There is loads of space to stretch out, and you can adjust the seat along with a huge centre armrest plus dual-zone climate control here too. With that massive panoramic sunroof, the new GLE remains the most spacious cabin in its class.

We drove the 450 petrol with 381hp and 500Nm on offer, being a six-cylinder turbo unit. However, Mercedes has also added a mild hybrid system with an extra 20bhp and 200Nm. To drive, the GLE EWB is silent, and you would think it is actually electric with superb refinement levels. Power delivery is linear and tuned for a relaxed drive while the light steering makes cruising easy. There is no Sport mode, but it does not need it anyway, but a firm tap on the accelerator does liven up things although it is best left enjoyed at a sedate pace. What stands out is the ride quality on the air suspension, which brings in a pillowy ride and softness that is needed for a luxury car like this yet it does not feel bloated around corners with decent body control.

The new GLE is even more comfortable, and refined, and gets an interior that is just right in terms of luxury. For customers who would be chauffeur-driven, the GLE is right now the one to go for while prices have crept up to Rs 1.10 crore, but it is also a lot of luxury SUV for that money.

What we like – Looks, comfort, space, quality, refinement

What we do not – Fiddly steering controls

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